Oscar Pistorius Sentencing: State seeking maximum sentence

BY TAI CHISHAKWE - OCTOBER 13, 2014

The State is seeking a maximum sentence as the sentencing proceedings for paralympian Oscar Pistorius, who was convicted of culpable homicide, began this morning in the High Court in Pretoria the National Prosecuting Authority said.

“Our duty is to make sure... we ask for the harshest sentence possible,” spokesman Nathi Mncube said outside court.

He said the State would argue for a sentence that fits the severity of the crime.

Pistorius was convicted of culpable homicide on September 12 for the Valentine's Day 2013 shooting of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

“He was convicted of culpable homicide, somebody lost a life and we think that deserves the harshest sentence,” said Mncube.

“We do not decide what is the appropriate sentence... Our responsibility is to argue for a harsh sentence.

“The minimum sentence act does not apply to culpable homicide, so there is no minimum or maximum sentence. It can vary from a suspended sentence to a fine to imprisonment. Only the judge can decide.”